Inspiration, wherever we can get it

For Americans in particular, today is a somber day. Every September 11th, since the horrible terrorist attacks on our homeland eleven years ago, we take the time to honor the victims and reflect upon how our lives were forever changed.

Many bloggers will have powerful, insightful things to say.

For me…well, I just don’t have the words. My heart is too full, and the right words won’t come. I’ll have to leave it in more capable hands.

Instead, I decided to share something inspiring, and show the good side of human nature. It’s way off topic, I know, but if it makes you smile today, maybe you won’t mind too much.

There is an old saying that you can judge a civilization by how it treats those who are vulnerable.

Here’s a clip of some folks at a beach in Brazil, who jumped right in and rescued thirty dolphins when they inexplicably beached themselves. No ropes, equipment, debates, or committees to study the problem. Just regular guys, doing their best.

This cool video was sent to me by my dad. *waves hi* My family and friends are always looking out for me, sending neat stuff to share with you. Thanks, guys!

You’ll see that there was a little bit of a learning curve involved in the rescue; after all, we’re talking about slippery, 200 lb animals who are flailing around in distress.

I have to admit to wincing a bit when the people were hauling the dolphins around by their tails. Click here for an article about why that’s a bad idea, including theories about what stranded them. Fortunately, it doesn’t look as if the dolphins suffered any ill effects from being rescued by “amateurs,” without proper equipment.

Have you ever had an up-close interaction with a dolphin? How about a time when you helped out someone – or something – that made you feel good about yourself?

14 thoughts on “Inspiration, wherever we can get it”

I didn’t even realize it was September 11th! Me and the calendar, not on the best of terms. I love stories about ordinary people doing extrodinary things. But, they also make me cry. It is nice to see what people can do when it comes down to it.

As one of those people who wrote a rather unremarkable post about my recollection of the events that played out eleven years ago, I’m thrilled to see you take another tack. There is always joy with the sorrow. Thanks for reminding us about the goodness that humans possess.

Renee, I was very impressed with your treatment of the anniversary! It’s all about connection, and your post sure did connect with me. Our children were only 8, 5, and 9 months old when the planes hit, and the very same thoughts were going through our minds, too. Thank you for sharing! By the way, the blackened oak tree (that I mentioned in my comment on your post) was taken down during reconstruction of the Pentagon.

That sounds like an amazing experience. Jenny, I know how you feel; I’ve stayed away from tv and radio all day, just burying my head in my work. Hang in there!

09/11/2012

Bill ( The Quiltman)

Nice.

A couple of months ago I found an excellent YouTube video of an amateur rescue of a Humpback whale caught in fish net. Very impressive since one guy actually jumped in to the water to begin untangling him, placing his own life at risk (given the distressed state of the creature). The whale was visibly happy about being freed and put on a show afterwards . Very touching.

You can find it by doing a YouTube search on “Humpback whale gives show”

Don’t let word get out that I am so soft for whales.
But [gruffly, coming to] howabout those Bears!?!

That is the most incredible thing I’ve ever seen. It brought tears to my eyes to think of these dolphins being beached….heart SUNG watching them all get back out to sea…praise the God’s and people for their quick action.

Hubby and I swam with the dolphins on our honeymoon. I was terrified at first but loved the fully interactive experience. Although…I am always sad to see an animal caged…so I struggle with it…

I know, Natalie, I think a lot of people feel that way, but remember that we don’t know what circumstances got the dolphin there, and if it’s even possible for it to successfully go back into the wild. That must have been an amazing experience.